Branson donates £100,000 to help McCanns clear their name

Sir Richard Branson has pledged £100,000 to help the McCanns with their legal bills.

The Virgin boss promised the money after becoming concerned that they could not afford the high-powered representation they need.

His spokesman said: "This is a chance to give them a fair hearing. When the McCanns said that under no circumstances would they touch the Find Madeleine fund and would sell their house if needs be, Richard felt he had to do something.

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"He is a father and there is a missing child out there. If Richard can help a bit to take the burden off the family then that is all to the good."

Sir Richard was one of a group of prominent people, including Sir Philip Green and J.K. Rowling, who contributed to a £1.5million reward for information leading to Madeleine's safe return.

Sir Richard hopes the money will eventually help raise £1million for the McCanns, as other wealthy people donate cash to the fund.

The fund would be used for PR and fighting legal expenses. It also means the McCanns will probably not have to sell their home if they are charged in relation to the disappearance of their daughter, Madeleine.

"In the midst of all of this speculation and rumour, we must remember there is a family in pain and a little four-year-old girl is still missing," Branson said in a statement.

"We must not lose sight of this fact. It is the only solid fact we know.

"The search for Madeleine must not let up for one moment."

The couple have denied any involvement in their daughter's disappearance. She went missing while on holiday in southern Portugal on May 3. They are convinced she is still alive.